The void left an indelible mark on the Padres’ season, too: They went 48-47 with Cabrera atop the lineup and 28-39 during the games he missed to injury and suspension.

“The time he missed last year was unfortunate,” Padres manager Bud Black said. “It was a learning experience for him. He’s in good shape, physically. He’s in a good frame of mind, mentally. So he just has to get back on the field and play, and that’s where he feels most comfortable.”

And that’s the idea, Cabrera said.

That’s why he reported early as pitchers and catchers began their work last week. He’s nestling up to the younger Latin players daily at the tables in the center of the clubhouse during downtime, greeting his teammates as they arrive in town and has been among the first in line for the optional workouts held over the last week.

What else needs to be said? Not much, it seems.

“I think different people have different feelings on that, so I don’t think I speak for the entire team,” third baseman Chase Headley said. “For me, he did what he had to do. He came in and talked with guys (at the time of his suspension) and he was around. For me, it’s over. He paid the penalty for what he did. That’s all you can ask of somebody.

“We just want him to be back and be part of the team, and I fully expect him to do that.”

For Cabrera, that means keeping his focus on defense, getting on base at the clip he did during that year’s breakout season and pushing the envelope on the bases.